EVENING. People.

Oslo Philharmonic Director Quits Over Bad Acoustics

February 11, 2000

Renowned violinist Mariss Jansons said Friday he was quitting as musical director of the Oslo Philharmonic after 20 years to protest poor conditions, notably bad acoustics at the city-owned Oslo Concert House.

"It's hard for me to understand why no one here in the city cares about us when we have respect and acknowledgment around the world," the Norwegian news agency NTB quoted him as saying.

Under Jansons, who has been musical director since 1979, the Oslo Philharmonic became what many see as a world-class orchestra, with frequent international tours. He said he would still conduct concerts already scheduled.

The Latvian-born Jansons said he has complained about the Oslo Concert House for two decades without anything being done about it.